Introduction
While it's a no-brainer for a social media marketer to engage in content creation or be able to create content for marketing purposes, it's worth noting that a social media marketer doesn't necessarily encompass the role of a content creator. In other words, although social media marketers play a role in generating content, their primary emphasis may lie in strategic planning, analytics, and overseeing social media campaigns, rather than the intricate creative aspects associated with content creation. Both roles are important for a successful online presence, yet they come with distinct skill sets and responsibilities. In this article, we'll explore key considerations to help you make an informed decision when hiring someone to run your online marketing activities, tailored to your business needs.
Understanding the Roles
Social Media Marketer
A social media marketer is the strategist, planner, and executor of campaigns across various platforms. They analyze data, engage with audiences, and ensure that the brand maintains a strong online presence.
Content Creator
A content creator is the creative force behind compelling narratives, visuals, and other media. They focus on producing content that resonates with the audience and building brand identity through captivating stories and visuals.
Know Your Business Objectives
The first step in making a decision on which role is key for your business is a clear understanding of your business objectives. What are you aiming to achieve through your digital presence? If your primary goal is to increase brand awareness, a content creator might be the ideal choice. They excel in crafting narratives and visuals that leave a lasting impression on your audience. On the other hand, if your focus is on driving conversions, and engagement, and strategically navigating the digital landscape, a social media marketer may be the key player. They have the expertise to develop and execute comprehensive strategies tailored to your particular business needs.
Consider Your Target Audience
Your target audience plays an important role in determining the type of professional you need to hire. Different demographics engage with content in various ways and on different platforms. A content creator can tailor their work to resonate with your specific audience through visually appealing and emotionally resonant content, while a social media marketer understands the nuances of each platform, ensuring that your brand message reaches the right people at the right time. Consider where your audience is most active and tailor your decision accordingly.
Assess Your Budget and Resources
Budget constraints and resource availability are practical considerations that can influence your decision. While both roles contribute significantly to a comprehensive digital marketing strategy, you may need to prioritise based on your immediate needs and available resources.
If your budget allows, consider hiring both a social media marketer and a content creator to harness the strengths of each role. If you need to prioritise, evaluate which role aligns more closely with your current business objectives and resource capabilities.
Why not just hire a Social Media Marketer?
Creating content can take up a lot of time and might even become a full-time job for many, especially when compared to the broader responsibilities of social media marketing. Social media marketers handle various tasks in managing social media strategies, leaving less time specifically for content creation. And, with the growing demand for video content on social platforms, content creators have become more and more essential to the digital landscape.
Collaboration Potential
Ideally, the relationship between a social media marketer and a content creator should be collaborative rather than siloed or funnelled. The synergy between strategy and creativity can amplify the impact of your digital marketing efforts. Look for professionals who can work seamlessly together, sharing insights and ideas to create a cohesive online presence.